Beekeeping Q&A
Our Beekeeping Q&A covers topics of curiosity to beekeepers. While we answer these questions in a succinct and easy-to-absorb style, we also provide links for further reading to help you drill down on each question.
What is the role of the drone honeybee?Drones are specialized for a singular but critical function: ensuring the genetic diversity and growth of honeybee populations.
February 13, 2025
How long do honeybees live?The lifetime of honeybees is dependent on the type of bee and the role that they play within the colony.
February 10, 2025
Can I let a beekeeper use my land for their beehives?What should you do if you love honeybees and beekeeping, but for one reason or another, you’re unable to be a beekeeper yourself?
February 7, 2025
How long does it take for a honeybee egg to hatch?Honeybee development time varies by role: worker, drone, or queen.
February 7, 2025
How do honeybees reproduce?Honeybee colonies reproduce both individually to maintain a workforce and through swarming to expand when resources or space are limited.
February 5, 2025
Should I join a beekeeping club?Receive valuable support and resources, whether you're new, returning for a second season, or an experienced beekeeper.
February 4, 2025
Are bears a threat to my beehive(s)?Bears can threaten beehives in areas where they live, but prevention is key to protecting your bees from such risks.
February 3, 2025
Can I tell if my colony is still alive in the winter?Beekeepers can use some special techniques to check if their colony is alive in the coldest months.
February 3, 2025
Are dead bees at a beehive’s entrance normal?A few dead bees are normal, but many at the entrance requires further investigation.
January 29, 2025
Do bees need water in the winter?In winter, honeybees rely on moisture inside their hive for water since they cannot forage while clustered.
January 28, 2025
Do my beehives need added insulation?There are some scenarios where wooden beehive bodies simply can’t offer enough heat retention.
January 28, 2025
What are the biggest threats to honeybees in the winter?Winter threats to honeybee colonies include cold, lack of food, and diseases or varroa mites.
January 27, 2025
Why is condensation in a beehive dangerous?If condensation disrupts a honeybee colony's cluster in cold weather, the bees can't regulate their temperature, risking the colony's survival.
January 24, 2025
How do honeybees make beeswax?Honeybees produce beeswax using specialized glands on their abdomen, which they convert into wax scales and chew with saliva until soft.
January 24, 2025
What temperature is too cold for honeybees?When temperatures drop below 40°F, honeybees cluster together for warmth, and beekeepers should avoid disturbing the colony and cluster.
January 23, 2025
Do I need permission to start beekeeping?Beekeeping laws and regulations cover many aspects of beekeeping and may vary by location.
January 22, 2025
What is a “Candy Board”?Made from a sugar and water mixture that provides carbohydrates to help them survive until spring, candy boards are an emergency winter food for bees
January 21, 2025
Can I be a beekeeper if I’m allergic?With precautions like consulting a doctor and carrying an Epi-Pen, it’s possible to safely enjoy the hobby with a bee sting allergy.
January 20, 2025
Why do bees buzz?Bees buzz for various reasons, including communication, signaling threats, indicating food sources through the waggle dance, and generating heat in winter to keep the colony...
January 20, 2025
What are “Winter Bees”?Winter bees, born in late summer or early fall, have a slower metabolism and extra fat reserves, allowing them to survive the cold months and...
January 17, 2025
Can I check on my bees during cold weather?Disturbing the hive in cold weather can stress bees, so it's safer to check on them from the outside by gently knocking and listening for...
January 16, 2025
Where do bees go to the bathroom?Honeybees are hygienic and avoid defecating inside the hive, instead taking "cleansing flights" when temperatures reach 40°F or above to relieve themselves away from the...
January 15, 2025
What is the best time of year to start beekeeping?Spring is the ideal time to start beekeeping, allowing bees to build comb and gather resources, but beekeepers should plan ahead, ordering equipment and bees...
January 14, 2025
Where can I obtain bees for a beehive?A nucleus colony (nuc) is ideal for new beekeepers as it includes an established colony, queen, and resources, while package bees are cheaper but harder...
January 13, 2025